Maryland's history has been shaped by rail and sea, through battles and skirmishes, by changing and developing industries, as cities, towns and resorts prospered and grew. The heritage of the Old Line State is as interesting and varied as the pioneers, explorers and political leaders who have called this state home.

1. Hagerstown - Starting Point Hagerstown has a unique location between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Allegheny Mountains that makes it a hub for transportation and supplies; the Battle of Antietam, first major Civil War battle to take place on Union soil, and the bloodiest single-day battle in U.S. history (almost 23,000 dead, wounded or missing), occurred just south of town. Almost 3,000 Confederate soldiers were interred in Rose Hill Cemetery. Aviation has a long and varied history here; this was the site of a company that produced biplanes for World War I and home to Fairchild-Hiller Corporation, which produced trainer aircraft during World War II. The Hagerstown Aviation Museum has several of these planes in their inventory including a 1949 AT-6 Texan and 1953 Fairchild C-199 Flying Boxcar.

2. Frederick - 28 miles, 32 minutes Civil War history runs deep in Frederick, for this is the place where General George Meade replaced General Joseph Hooker as commander of the Army of the Potomac, President Lincoln spoke here to bolster spirits after the Battle of Antietam and several Civil War battles were fought in this area. Today, the Monocacy National Battlefield has a visitor's center and interpretative markers for self-guided tours across the battlefield. Complete your visit at the National Museum of Civil War Medicine, where the focus is on the medical, surgical and nursing skills utilized during the Civil War.

3. Washington, D.C. - 51 miles, 58 minutes Head down I-70 for a whirlwind tour of our nation's past to enjoy a revolutionary experience at the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Museum with over 30,000 antiques and artifacts showcased in 31 period rooms. The African American Civil War Memorial & Museum tells the story of U.S. Colored Troops during the war, right up to the battle for Civil Rights. Pay tribute to more than 16,000 soldiers who served in the Second World War at the National WWII Memorial, then honor and remember all who have served our country at Arlington National Cemetery. A unique blend of past and present awaits you at the National Museum of American History, with 28 different historical subjects to explore including science and math, advertising and transportation.

4. Baltimore - 40 miles, 54 minutes Wave after wave of fun awaits you at Historic Ships in Baltimore, where one of the most impressive collections of military ships can be found along with the Seven Foot Knoll Lighthouse. Baltimore is the birthplace of American railroading and the B&O Railroad Museum brings that railroad magic alive with displays you can touch, see, hear and ride. The Baltimore Museum of Industry tells the story of the people who built this city, and country, with over one million artifacts spanning the Industrial Revolution to the 21st century. Visit the Edgar Allen Poe House and Museum, and learn what inspired the legendary pioneer of horror literature. If you're feeling sporty, take in a game played by football's Baltimore Ravens or baseball's Baltimore Orioles.

5. Ocean City - 145 miles, 2 hours, 40 minutes Ocean City's history has long been a resort town; amusements abound when you stroll the Ocean City Boardwalk with its sandy beaches, fresh salt-water taffy, two amusement parks, an arcade, the Trimper Carousel, shops galore and the Pier. There's tons of fun at Frontier Town, a Western-themed park and camping resort that includes a water park, mini-golf courses, variety of restaurants, marina and a Wild West show you can perform in. Believe It or Not—Ripley's has a museum here, the Odditorium, with weird and unusual items from around the world. Wander through the Marvelous Mirror Maze with over 100 mirrors and then drop by the Candy Factory for a quick snack. Kids will love Old Pro Golf, a complex of four miniature golf courses, each with a compelling theme and challenging holes.